Re:Ask HN: What up and coming technology has you most excited?
by rapnie on Thursday April 12, 2018 @12:02PM
(#16822266)
I saw a documentary on thorium reactors the other day.. largely forgotten since the start of the Nuclear Age (can't make bombs from it)
Now a bit on the uptake by (still few) scientists. Its a no-no subject because of the vested interests in uranium/plutonium fission and (overly) prestigious fusion projects.
Was not a fan of fission, but this is much safer, more maintainable (liquid salt/thorium mix, runs through pipes), and much less waste ('only' 500yr radioactively dangerous).
And the best thing: Thorium is everywhere. All countries have it, so it would democratize nuclear technologies, be a big help in solving the energy crisis!
Now a bit on the uptake by (still few) scientists. Its a no-no subject because of the vested interests in uranium/plutonium fission and (overly) prestigious fusion projects.
Was not a fan of fission, but this is much safer, more maintainable (liquid salt/thorium mix, runs through pipes), and much less waste ('only' 500yr radioactively dangerous).
And the best thing: Thorium is everywhere. All countries have it, so it would democratize nuclear technologies, be a big help in solving the energy crisis!